Name of person featured: Brenda Pope

Name of business: Franklin Business Incubator

Street address: 601 N. Mechanic St., Franklin

Phone number: (757) 562-1958

Operating Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

E-mail address: bpope@franklinsouthamptonva.com

Nature of Business: Receptionist for the Incubator and Franklin Southampton Economic Development

Principle MANAGER: Nancy Parrish, Incubator manager

Year Founded: 2005

Number of employees: Varies

How’s business? Wonderful. We are building out on the third and fourth floors. Business is expanding and growing. As an Incubator we watch our tenants as they grow and need more room and graduate.

One thing you wish everyone knew about your business: We are here to help you with your business, your ideas and help you get started and answer your questions.

Something you offer that a customer won’t find elsewhere: Friendly, helpful service and a positive atmosphere. We work with you.

Advice to young entrepreneurs: Follow your dreams, work hard and keep going.

Your first job: I was in retail, then got married and we raised four sons, Jonathan, David, Samuel and Daniel.

Your role model (in business or in life generally): My dad had a wonderful work ethnic. Do your best, and enjoy the journey.

The keys to a successful business are: People and dedication. Have good people skills and enjoy what you are doing. Remember, people like to be met with a smile and be helped. You are the first person when someone comes in the door. This is an opportunity to welcome and help that customer.